Is there such a thing as subclinical hypothyroidism?

Is there such a thing as subclinical hypothyroidism?

Subclinical hypothyroidism (also known as compensated hypothyroidism or mild hypothyroidism) is a condition associated with a raised serum concentration of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) but a normal serum free thyroxine (FT4). It is common, affecting about 10% of women above the age of 55 years.

When to treat subclinical hypothyroidism in children?

For this reason, there may not be a benefit to treating subclinical hypothyroidism. If subclinical hypothyroidism is not treated, thyroid function should be monitored every 6 to 12 months for a period of time to make sure it does not worsen. If the TSH continues to rise (usually > 10 mIU/L), treatment may be necessary.

When to start LT4 monotherapy for subclinical hypothyroidism?

It supports the NICE recommendation to offer a trial of LT4 monotherapy to symptomatic adults less than 65 years of age with a TSH level less than 10 mU/L, and advises monitoring TFTs at least annually once the serum TSH level is stable. It notes that few people with subclinical hypothyroidism have typical symptoms of hypothyroidism.

What is the normal TSH level for subclinical hypothyroidism?

Subclinical hypothyroidism is generally defined as TSH levels of about 4 to 10 mIU/L, with normal triiodothyronine and thyroxine levels and no clear symptoms of hypothyroidism. Levels of TSH might vary up to 50% between tests, 6 and daily fluctuations 7 in individuals can be 26%.

Subclinical hypothyroidism (also known as compensated hypothyroidism or mild hypothyroidism) is a condition associated with a raised serum concentration of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) but a normal serum free thyroxine (FT4). It is common, affecting about 10% of women above the age of 55 years.

For this reason, there may not be a benefit to treating subclinical hypothyroidism. If subclinical hypothyroidism is not treated, thyroid function should be monitored every 6 to 12 months for a period of time to make sure it does not worsen. If the TSH continues to rise (usually > 10 mIU/L), treatment may be necessary.

How often does subclinical hypothyroidism progress to full blown?

According to published research, 3 to 8 percent of people have subclinical hypothyroidism. It’s common for the condition to progress to full-blown hypothyroidism. In one study, 26.8 percent of those with subclinical hypothyroidism developed full-blown hypothyroidism within six years of their initial diagnosis.

It supports the NICE recommendation to offer a trial of LT4 monotherapy to symptomatic adults less than 65 years of age with a TSH level less than 10 mU/L, and advises monitoring TFTs at least annually once the serum TSH level is stable. It notes that few people with subclinical hypothyroidism have typical symptoms of hypothyroidism.